Some children would rather do anything else than reading. For parents who enjoy getting lost in books in their spare time, this might be a little hard to accept. The good news is there’re several ways to motivate reluctant readers.
Here are a few ways to motivate reluctant readers and make reading an even more enjoyable and appealing activity.
1. Pick Relevant Kids Educational Books
Kids have all sorts of interests and hobbies. Is your child obsessed with a particular sport? Do they have an interest in animals? There are educational books for kids that can enlighten them or show them how to do something with step-by-step instructions.
To make reading fun, it starts with choosing books that your child will want to pick up. Ask them what subjects they’re most curious about. Then, make a list of books to help them narrow down what they should read.
2. Introduce Graphic Novels
Boys and girls of all reading levels prefer graphic novels, according to studies. B. Edwards, an educational researcher, found that middle school students who weren’t interested in reading were more likely to read graphic novels. Edwards’ findings revealed that these students liked the format and felt they could challenge themselves more.
With the fast pace and exciting plots, graphic novels can grip even the most reluctant readers. Even though they have eye-catching visuals, graphic novels are still rich with text that readers have to analyze.
Kids need to understand plots and cause and effect, which all improve their reading comprehension. They’re also able to understand more about the story and characters from their facial and bodily expressions.
With a huge variety of graphic novel genres and series out there, why not involve your child in choosing the books they’re most attracted to?
3. Seek Characters they’d Connect with
Choose books that feature characters that are reflective of your child. It helps them connect with the book because they can identify with the character. When kids see characters that either look like them or have the same hobbies, it gives them a sense of validation and a stronger sense of belonging in the world.
Brainstorm all the aspects that you think would help keep your child engaged with a story. Look for books that feature diverse characters or characters that have diverse backgrounds or living situations.
4. Be Flexible with how they Prefer to Read
Like many other things in life, reading doesn’t have to be treated like a marathon. Some kids feel overwhelmed with sitting and taking in large amounts of text at once – let them know it’s okay to read a chapter or two at a time.
If possible, carve out a daily reading time. Pick a dedicated time where your child can sit with a book and get into the story. To make this time more fun and cozy, create a reading nook and decorate it with plush pillows and blankets. Having a comfortable zone made just for them will make reading more enjoyable.
Switch up reading time now and again – read aloud if that’s what your kid wants. Let them choose the book and ask open-ended questions along the way to help them think about and process the story.
5. Reading can be Anywhere
While kids can learn plenty from kids’ educational books, our environment and surroundings are a great way to strengthen your child’s reading skills. Language and messaging can be seen pretty much everywhere. So, take the opportunity to encourage your child to observe what’s around them.
The next time you’re at a restaurant, give your child the chance to read the menu and make a choice on what they’d like to eat.
If you’re preparing a new recipe, ask your child to read the recipe and directions aloud. Not only does this type of activity foster more significant interaction and bonding, but it also sharpens their reading skills.
6. Show Genuine Interest
Don’t hold back on showing your enthusiasm for books and reading. It’s interesting how kids can pick up on that attitude and follow your lead.
Start conversations about what they’re reading. Ask them about the story and the characters with enthusiasm. This shows them you’re interested in what they’re learning about, which encourages them to keep on reading.
It’s also essential to make time to read aloud to them. Add plenty of expressions and change your tone of voice to make the story even more exciting – your kid will have more fun and feel more immersed in the story.
Motivating a child who’s a reluctant reader involves making the activity fun and interesting just for them. Get creative and think about how you can make reading more interactive and tailored to your child’s interests and hobbies. You can also motivate your child to learn with these simple strategies.
Check out Kidsbooks.com for a wide selection of books to add to your child’s home library.
